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Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers Exodus 26:7–14.
Moses is here ordered to make a double covering for the tabernacle, that it might not rain in, and that the beauty of those fine curtains might not be damaged. 1. There was to be a covering of hair camlet curtains, which were somewhat larger every way than the inner curtains, because they were to enclose them, and probably were stretched out at some little distance from them, Exo 26:7, etc. These were coupled together with brass clasps. The stuff being less valuable, the tacks were so; but the brass tacks would answer the intention as effectually as the golden ones. The bonds of unity may be as strong between curtains of goats' hair as between those of purple and scarlet. 2. Over this there was to be another covering, and that a double one (Exo 26:14), one of rams' skins dyed red, probably dressed with the wool on; another of badgers' skins, so we translate it, but it should rather seem to have been some strong sort of leather (but very fine), for we read of the best sort of shoes being made of it, Eze 16:10. Now observe here, (1.) That the outside of the tabernacle was coarse and rough, the beauty of it was in the inner curtains. Those in whom God dwells must labour to be better than they seem to be. Hypocrites put the best side outwards, like whited sepulchres; but the king's daughter is all glorious within (Psa 45:13); in the eye of the world black as the tents of Kedar, but, in the eye of God, comely as the curtains of Solomon, Sol 1:5. Let our adorning be that of the hidden man of the heart, which God values, Pe1 3:4. (2.) That where God places his glory he will create a defence upon it; even upon the habitations of the righteous there shall be a covert, Isa 6:5, Isa 6:6. The protection of Providence shall always be upon the beauty of holiness. God's tent will be a pavilion, Psa 27:5.
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Summary
Exodus 26:9 provides precise divine instructions for the construction of the Tabernacle's outer covering, specifically detailing the arrangement of the goat hair curtains. This verse mandates that these curtains be divided into two distinct sets—one comprising five and the other six—and further specifies that the sixth curtain of the second set is to be folded over at the forefront, or eastern entrance, of the sacred tent. These meticulous instructions underscore God's demand for order, exactness, and symbolic significance in the design of His dwelling place, ensuring both structural integrity and theological meaning for the portable sanctuary that would accompany Israel in the wilderness.
Context
Literary Context
Exodus 26:9 is intricately woven into a highly detailed section of Scripture (chapters 25-31) where God systematically reveals the divine blueprints for the Tabernacle, its furnishings, and the priestly garments to Moses on Mount Sinai. This chapter, in particular, focuses on the construction of the Tabernacle proper, moving from the innermost components outward. The preceding verses, Exodus 26:1-6, describe the inner linen curtains, specifying their dimensions, colors, and artistic design, which formed the immediate covering of the Holy Place and Most Holy Place. Immediately before our verse, Exodus 26:7-8 introduces the goat hair curtains, which form the outer tent covering, noting their number (eleven) and dimensions. Thus, Exodus 26:9 logically follows by providing the specific method for coupling and arranging these goat hair curtains into two distinct sections, ensuring they properly enclose and protect the sacred space within. The pervasive precision throughout these chapters emphasizes God's meticulousness and the profound holiness of His presence.
Historical & Cultural Context
The instructions for the Tabernacle were given to the Israelites during their forty years of wilderness wanderings, a period of nomadic existence following their liberation from Egyptian bondage. As a mobile people, they required a portable sanctuary where God's presence could dwell among them, a tangible focal point for worship, sacrifice, and the maintenance of the covenant relationship. In the ancient Near East, temples were typically stationary, massive, and grand structures, signifying the stability and power of the deity. However, the Tabernacle's design uniquely accommodated Israel's journey, allowing God to literally "tabernacle" or "tent" with His people. This portability was crucial for maintaining the covenant relationship and providing a visible sign of God's leading. The materials used, such as goat hair, were readily available in the desert environment and were known for their durability, water resistance, and protective qualities against the harsh elements (sun, wind, sand, and rain), making them eminently suitable for an outdoor, temporary dwelling.
Key Themes
Exodus 26:9 significantly contributes to several major theological and narrative themes found throughout the book of Exodus and the Pentateuch. Foremost is the theme of Divine Presence and Immanence, as the Tabernacle's construction is the primary means by which God will dwell among His people (Exodus 25:8). The meticulous instructions highlight the theme of God's Holiness and Transcendence, emphasizing that His presence demands reverence, order, and a divinely ordained approach. The layered coverings, including the goat hair curtains, symbolize the Separation of the Sacred from the Profane and the increasing degrees of holiness as one approaches the inner sanctuary. Furthermore, the entire Tabernacle narrative underscores God's Sovereignty and Authority, as every detail, down to the coupling and doubling of curtains, is precisely commanded by Him. Finally, the practical yet symbolic design of the Tabernacle points to the theme of Atonement and Access to God, setting the stage for the sacrificial system detailed in Leviticus.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
This verb (H2266) means "to join," "to unite," or "to bind together." In the context of the Tabernacle's construction, it signifies the precise and intentional joining of the individual goat hair curtains to form larger, continuous sections. This was not a haphazard connection but a divinely ordained method of assembly, likely involving loops and clasps, ensuring structural integrity and a seamless appearance, reflecting God's desire for unity and order in His dwelling place.
The verb (H3717) means "to fold together" or "to repeat." This specific instruction for the sixth curtain indicates a unique action beyond mere coupling. It implies that a portion of this curtain was folded back upon itself, creating an extra layer. This "doubling" likely served multiple purposes: providing additional protection or reinforcement at the Tabernacle's entrance, creating a functional flap or overhang, or perhaps adding a visual emphasis to the point of access to God's presence.
This term (H6440), literally meaning "face" or "front" (often used with the preposition H4136 "mûwl" for "opposite" or "before"), refers to the eastern side of the Tabernacle, which served as its primary entrance. The doubling of the sixth curtain at this specific location highlights the significance of the entryway. It was the point of access for the priests and, to the outer court, for the people, and thus, it was given special attention in the divine blueprint, signifying the importance and solemnity of the approach to God's holy presence.
Verse Breakdown
"And thou shalt couple five curtains by themselves"
This clause instructs Moses to join five of the goat hair curtains together to form a single, continuous section. This first large piece would cover a significant portion of the Tabernacle structure, likely forming the rear and sides, demonstrating the methodical approach to covering the sacred space with precision and order.
"and six curtains by themselves"
Following the first set, this clause directs the creation of a second, larger section by joining six individual goat hair curtains. This second piece would then cover the remaining portion of the Tabernacle, including the front, ensuring complete enclosure and protection for the inner sanctuary. The division into two distinct sets suggests a practical consideration for handling and assembly, perhaps allowing for easier transport and setup of the large, heavy coverings.
"and shalt double the sixth curtain in the forefront of the tabernacle"
This is the most specific and unique instruction in the verse. It mandates that the last curtain of the second set (the sixth one) is not merely coupled but is to be folded over at the Tabernacle's eastern entrance. This doubling could have provided extra insulation, enhanced durability against wear and tear at a high-traffic area, or created a kind of vestibule or overhang, visually marking the sacred threshold and emphasizing the solemnity of entering God's dwelling place.
Literary Devices
The primary literary device at play in Exodus 26:9, and indeed throughout the Tabernacle instructions, is Precision and Detail, which functions as a profound form of Symbolism. The meticulous measurements, specific materials, and exact methods of assembly, like the coupling and doubling of curtains, are not merely architectural blueprints; they are divinely ordained details that symbolize God's perfect order, His absolute holiness, and His demand for reverence and exactitude in approaching Him. This extreme specificity underscores that every aspect of worship and the sacred space is under divine control and carries profound meaning. The Tabernacle itself is a grand Type, foreshadowing future spiritual realities concerning God's dwelling with humanity. The layering of curtains, from the inner linen to the outer goat hair, also employs Symbolism of increasing degrees of holiness and restricted access, culminating in the Holy of Holies. The doubling of the sixth curtain at the "forefront" can be seen as a specific instance of Emphasis, drawing particular attention to the entrance as a crucial point of transition from the common to the holy, a threshold demanding special consideration.
Theological and Thematic Connections
Exodus 26:9, with its precise instructions for the outer goat hair curtains, contributes significantly to the overarching theology of God's holiness and His desire for an ordered approach to worship. The meticulous design of the Tabernacle, from its innermost sanctum to its outermost coverings, underscores that God is a God of order, not chaos, and that His presence demands reverence and careful adherence to His revealed will. The layering of curtains, including the protective goat hair, symbolically represents the layers of access to God's presence, highlighting His transcendence and the need for a divinely ordained path to approach Him. This careful construction of a dwelling place for God among His people foreshadows the ultimate dwelling of God with humanity, first in the person of Christ, and then in His church.
Reflection and Application
The divine precision evident in Exodus 26:9 serves as a profound reminder that God cares deeply about the details of our lives and our worship. Just as every component of the Tabernacle had its specific place and purpose, so too does every aspect of our existence matter to God. This passage challenges us to consider the intentionality and excellence with which we approach our spiritual lives, our service, and our daily responsibilities. Are we "coupling" our efforts with diligence and "doubling" our commitment in areas that are "at the forefront" of our spiritual walk? It encourages us to live with a consciousness of God's holy presence, recognizing that our lives, as temples of the Holy Spirit, are meant to be ordered and dedicated to His glory. We are called to reflect His divine design in our character and conduct, honoring Him in every detail, understanding that even the seemingly mundane aspects of our lives can be acts of worship when offered with intentionality and reverence.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why were there two sets of goat hair curtains (five and six), and why was the sixth doubled?
The division of the goat hair curtains into two sets (five and six) was primarily a practical matter for managing the large dimensions of the Tabernacle covering, making it easier to construct, transport, and assemble in a nomadic setting. The total length of these eleven goat hair curtains exceeded that of the inner linen curtains, providing an essential overhang, particularly at the back and sides, to protect the more precious inner layers. The specific instruction to "double the sixth curtain in the forefront" (the eastern entrance) served multiple purposes. It would have provided extra protection and reinforcement at the most trafficked and exposed part of the tent, enhancing its durability against wear and tear. It could also have created a functional flap or an aesthetically pleasing overhang, visually emphasizing the sanctity and importance of the entry point into God's dwelling place. This meticulous detail underscores God's concern for both the practical function and the profound symbolic significance of every element of the Tabernacle, including its outer coverings.
What was the overall purpose of the goat hair curtains specifically, as opposed to the inner linen curtains?
The goat hair curtains served as the outermost, protective layer of the Tabernacle, functioning as the primary "tent" or "covering" over the entire structure. Unlike the inner linen curtains, which were richly embroidered with cherubim and symbolized the holiness and beauty of God's immediate dwelling, the goat hair curtains were more utilitarian. They were specifically designed for durability and protection against the harsh desert elements—intense sun, strong winds, blowing sand, and occasional rain. They acted as a robust shield for the more ornate and sacred components within, including the inner linen curtains and the furnishings of the Holy Place and Most Holy Place. This layering system, from the durable exterior to the sacred interior, visually communicated the increasing holiness as one approached God's presence within the Tabernacle and emphasized the need for protection and separation.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
The meticulous design of the Tabernacle, including the precise coupling and doubling of its outer curtains, finds its ultimate and perfect fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The Tabernacle, as God's dwelling place among His people, was a temporary and symbolic shadow of a greater spiritual reality. John 1:14 powerfully declares that "the Word became flesh and tabernacled among us," signifying that Jesus Himself is the ultimate dwelling place of God, the very embodiment of divine presence among humanity. Just as the goat hair curtains provided a protective outer layer and defined the sacred space, Christ's humanity served as the visible "tent" through which the fullness of God dwelled, accessible yet holy. The "doubling" of the sixth curtain at the "forefront" of the Tabernacle, emphasizing the entrance, powerfully foreshadows Christ as the exclusive "door" or "way" to God (John 10:9 and John 14:6). He is the one through whom all access to the Father is granted, the perfect and only mediator. Furthermore, the temporary and imperfect nature of the Tabernacle points to the permanent and perfect high priesthood of Christ, who, unlike the earthly priests serving in a man-made tent, entered the true, heavenly Holy of Holies by His own blood, securing eternal redemption for all who believe (Hebrews 9:11-12). Through Christ, the layers of separation are removed, and believers are now incorporated into a spiritual temple, becoming a dwelling place for God by the Spirit (Ephesians 2:19-22).